Benefits explained: It lets expats sponsor first-degree relatives in addition to spouses and children
Published: Mon 29 Aug 2022, 8:19 AM
Last updated: Mon 29 Aug 2022, 7:39 PM
The UAE has introduced several visa and entry reforms to attract high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals. In addition to the hugely popular Golden Visa and multiple-entry five-year tourist visa, the country has announced a five-year Green Visa. The residence visa allows its holder to sponsor himself/herself for five years.
These reforms are expected to go into effect from September 2022.
Since expatriates account for around 85 per cent of the UAE’s population, new visas and entries are highly sought-after by foreign workers who wish to enjoy the best quality of life that this country offers.
Green Visa holders are allowed to sponsor their first-degree relatives in addition to their spouses and children. In all cases, the duration and validity of the family visa will be aligned with the original residence visa holder.
Under the updated regulations, Green visas will be issued to foreigners in three categories.
>>> Skilled professionals: This five-year residency for skilled employees is provided without a sponsor or employer. The applicants should have a valid employment contract, and be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and the salary should not be less than Dh15,000.
>>> Freelancers and self-employed: In line with the growing importance of flexible work models, freelancers and self-employed can obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. The minimum educational level should be Bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma. Annual income from self-employment for the previous two years should not be less than Dh360,000 (over $98,000), or the applicant should have proof of financial solvency throughout his/her stay in the UAE.
>>> Investors/Partners: This permit has been introduced to encourage investment and attract investors who wish to establish or participate in commercial activities. The validity under this category has been increased from the previous two years to five years now. The requirements include approval of the investment and proof of investment. If the investor (partner) has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated. Approval of the competent local authorities is mandatory.
3 main benefits:
- Green Visa holders can sponsor male children up to 25 years as compared to 18 years previously
- No age limit for unmarried daughters of Green Visa holders
- Children of determination get a visa regardless of their age
- Up to 6 months stay in UAE after the visa is cancelled/expired
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FAQs
Another long-term residency visa introduced in 2022 to allow expats to live and work in the UAE is the Green Visa. This visa allows freelancers, self-employed individuals, skilled employees, and investors/partners to sponsor themselves for 5 years.
Who is eligible for the UAE green visa? ›
Who can apply for a Green visa? Freelancers, self-employed and skilled employees can apply for a Green visa. Freelancers and/or self-employed people who wish to apply for a Green visa need to submit: a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Who is eligible for UAE residence visa? ›
To qualify for a UAE Residence Visa, you have to fall under one of the following categories: You will work in the UAE, under a governmental office or in a private company. You will study in a UAE educational institution.
What is category A in the UAE visa? ›
Based on their academic qualifications foreign employees are categorised into three categories: If you hold a bachelor's degree or higher, you are in category 1. If you hold a post-secondary diploma in any discipline, you fall into category 2. If you have a high school diploma, you are in category 3.
What are the different types of residence permits in UAE? ›
There are several types of residence visas, which includes: business, golden, property owner, retirement, remote work and student residence visas.
What is the green visa for 5 years in UAE? ›
The UAE's Green visa is a type of residence visa, that allows its holder to sponsor himself/herself for 5 years, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to sponsor his/her visa, and allowing skilled employees, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs to live and work in the country.
What is the benefit of green visa in UAE? ›
The UAE Green Visa is a special category of residency visa that allows the visa holders to sponsor themselves for five years. This unique feature eliminates the need for an employer or a UAE national to sponsor your visa.
What is a category 3 visa in the UAE? ›
In the UAE's visa system, expats are classified into categories by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation based on their educational qualifications. Category 3 specifically applies to individuals with a high school diploma.
How much is the 5-year residence visa in UAE? ›
In a landmark move aimed at fostering inclusivity, the UAE has introduced a 5-year residence visa, catering to international travelers looking for extended stays. Priced at a nominal fee of 720 dirhams (Rs 55,000), the visa is designed to enhance the living experience for foreign residents within the Emirates.
Can you get a UAE residence visa without a sponsor? ›
The UAE Golden Visa Program
For most people, relocating to the UAE requires a sponsored visa, either by an Emirati national or an Emirati company. However, high net-worth individuals can bypass this requirement and acquire a self-sponsored visa for residency purposes and become able to move to Dubai without a job.
How many types of visas are there in the UAE?
- Tourist Visa.
- 5-year multiple entry visa.
- UAE Golden Visa.
- UAE Green Visa.
The Golden visa is a long-term residence visa which enables foreign talents to live, work or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes are among those eligible for the Golden visa.
How much is a Category 3 visa in the UAE? ›
UAE, Dubai Work Visa
As per certain reports, the work permit fees in the UAE are outlined as follows: Category 1: AED 300. Category 2: AED 600 to AED 2000, with the specific amount varying based on the worker's skill level (skilled or unskilled) Category 3: AED 5000.
How much is the green visa for UAE? ›
UAE Green Visa Cost
Entry Permit - 1,035 AED. Residency Visa - 2,200 AED. Change of Status - 570 AED.
How to get residence visa in UAE without a job? ›
For those who do not come on an employment contract, there are two other ways for obtaining the UAE residence permit: either through investment in real estate (property residence visa), or through the registration of a company. The first option to obtain residency is by purchasing and owning a property.
What is the difference between residency and visa in UAE? ›
Work visas are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), focusing on employment-related permissions. Residence permits, on the other hand, are issued by the General Directorate of Residency Foreign Affairs (GDRFA), emphasizing the right to reside in the UAE.
How much investment required for UAE green visa? ›
Investment: Minimum of 1 million AED in freehold properties designated for foreign ownership. Duration: 5 years, renewable upon fulfilling requirements. Additional options: Green Visa also available for freelancers, skilled employees, and retirees with specific criteria.
What is the cost of a green visa in the UAE? ›
UAE Green Visa cost in 2024 is AED 5,260, including: Entry Permit - 1,035 AED. Residency Visa - 2,200 AED. Change of Status - 570 AED.
How to get permanent residency in the UAE? ›
If you fulfil the following eligibility criteria, you will be able to get PR in UAE:
- The applicant is completing their studies in a UAE educational institution.
- You are a child, spouse, parent, maid or close relative of a UAE citizen.
- You are the owner of any UAE property.
- Make a significant investment in the country.
The primary benefit of UAE Green Visa is that successful applicants can get residence permits for their male children up to 25 years of age, while there is no age limit for unmarried daughters. Moreover, children of determination (those with special needs) are also granted resident permits, irrespective of their age.
